Passive and high-performance homes
How a coordinated envelope, ventilation and services strategy can reduce heat demand without assuming a particular standard.
Practical Points
- 1.
Start with the form, orientation, heat-loss model and junction strategy.
- 2.
Coordinate airtightness, thermal bridges, glazing, shading and ventilation rather than selecting one headline product.
- 3.
Confirm commissioning, controls and maintenance access before relying on predicted operation.
Considerations & Trade-offs
More detailing and site quality control can increase design and construction time.
Higher insulation levels can affect floor area, reveals, moisture strategy and cost.
Concept Scenarios
Semi-detached loft concept
A discussion framework for roof-space accommodation while coordinating structure, fire, insulation, glazing and ventilation.
Options Included:
- Dormer with coordinated warm-roof build-up
- Roof-window-led layout
- Phased fabric and services plan
Passive retrofit concept
A staged retrofit thought experiment starting with diagnosis and envelope continuity, then ventilation and heating decisions.
Options Included:
- Survey and repair first
- Airtightness and ventilation package
- Fabric works sequenced with heat-pump readiness
Related Internal Resources
Official Guidance & Technical Sources
Content angles / Explore further
- • LinkedIn: compare heat-loss modelling, junctions and commissioning—not a headline standard.
- • WhatsApp: ask which details protect continuity at windows, floors and roofs.
- • YouTube: explain what a high-performance brief must leave for the designer to verify.